Officials of the Current said the comic fit with the theme of the entire newspaper, which was sports-oriented because of the Bexar County vote Tuesday on taxpayer funding for a new San Antonio Spurs arena.

"We thought it was an effective way to convey to our readers the country's and this city's obsessive relationship with sports," said Estela Reyes Lopez, managing editor of the Current.

Some retailers who distribute the Current have said they are upset by the cartoon. County Line BBQ on the River Walk removed the publication from its restaurant.

"We had a very irate customer call us back because one of her kids picked it up," said general manager Gina Hartbarger.

Other retail managers also have pulled the issue.

"It's vulgar," said Christina Cullinan, acting manager of Good Time Charlie's Bar & Cafe. "Kids can't see it, they can't take it home. ... I'm not sure we're going to keep it anymore."

Ms. Reyes Lopez said the alternative publication never has been intended for minors.

The 45,000-circulation newspaper is distributed by hundreds of retailers citywide.

Dan Clowes of Berkeley, Calif., drew the comic. This is the first time "On Sports" has been published outside of his alternative comic book, which is intended for adults.